Can an abdominal CT scan help detect and diagnose stomach problems?

Your healthcare provider recommended an abdominal CT scan because they want to study detailed images of your abdomen, so they can diagnose what’s bothering your stomach, and make a plan to treat you.

An abdominal CT scan can help your healthcare provider  detect a wide range of conditions affecting various organs, tissues, and blood vessels within your abdominal area. 

In this article, we’ll look at what stomach problems an abdominal CT can help diagnose, how to get ready for your CT scan, and at how to understand your CT results. 

How does an abdominal CT scan create detailed images?

An abdominal CT scan uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images of your abdomen. These images are then processed by a computer to create detailed, three-dimensional pictures of your abdominal organs, like your stomach, liver, pancreas, kidneys, and intestines.

The images from an abdominal CT scan are highly detailed, allowing healthcare providers to see even small abnormalities that might not be visible with other imaging methods. This level of detail is crucial for accurately diagnosing and determining the extent of various stomach problems or other abdominal conditions.

Why would my healthcare provider recommend an abdominal CT?

One common reason is to diagnose unexplained abdominal pain. The detailed images can help pinpoint the exact cause of the pain, whether it is due to an inflamed appendix, kidney stones, or another condition. 

An abdominal CT scan can also be used to evaluate digestive issues, such as persistent nausea, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits. By providing a clear view of the digestive organs, the scan can reveal problems like bowel obstructions, diverticulitis, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Your provider may also recommend an abdominal CT scan to monitor a known condition. If you have been diagnosed with a condition like cirrhosis or pancreatic cancer, regular CT scans can help track the progression of the disease, and the effectiveness of your treatment.

Detecting stomach problems with an abdominal CT

An abdominal CT scan is a powerful diagnostic tool that can help detect a variety of stomach problems. We’ll show you how a CT scan can identify inflammation, infections, and ulcers, detect tumors and cysts, and reveal gastrointestinal obstructions or blockages.

How can a CT scan identify inflammation, infections, and ulcers in the stomach?

An abdominal CT scan can provide detailed images of the stomach lining and surrounding tissues, making it easier to spot signs of inflammation, infections, and ulcers. Inflammation in the stomach, also known as gastritis, can be identified by thickened stomach walls or irregularities in the stomach lining. These detailed images help healthcare providers determine the extent of the inflammation and its potential causes.

Infections in the stomach, which may be caused by bacteria, can also be detected with a CT scan. The scan can reveal areas of the stomach that are swollen, or that have abnormal fluid collections, which can indicate an infection. 

Ulcers, which are open sores on the stomach lining, look like distinctly shaped, well-defined areas in the images, making it easier for your provider to target and to treat them.

How does a CT scan detect tumors, cysts, and abnormal growths?

Tumors often have a different density than the surrounding tissue, making them stand out in the images. The detailed cross-sectional views provided by a CT scan allow healthcare providers to see the size, shape, and exact location of these growths.

Cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs, can also be detected with a CT scan. A cyst looks distinctive, since it appears as a round or oval structure, with a clear boundary. 

Detecting abnormal growths early is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment plan and monitoring any changes over time. If your provider can intervene early, then you’ll likely have a more favorable outcome.

What can a CT scan reveal about gastrointestinal obstructions or blockages?

Gastrointestinal obstructions or blockages can cause you significant stomach pain and other digestive issues. An abdominal CT scan can clearly show areas where the intestines are narrowed or blocked. These blockages might be caused by various factors, including scar tissue, hernias, or impacted food.

The detailed images from a CT scan can help healthcare providers identify the exact location and cause of the obstruction. This info helps your provider to plan the best course of treatment, which may include medications, dietary changes, and in some cases, surgery.

Preparing for your abdominal CT scan

Getting ready for an abdominal CT scan is pretty straightforward, but if this is your first abdominal CT, you might be a little bit anxious. We will guide you through the preparation process, what to expect during the scan, and how long the scanusually takes.

How should I get ready for an abdominal CT scan?

Preparing for an abdominal CT scan typically involves a few simple steps. Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions based on your individual needs, but generally, you may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the scan. This helps ensure clear images of your abdominal area. 

You might also be asked to change into a gown, and to remove any jewelry or metal objects, since these can interfere with the scan’s accuracy. If contrast dye is being used, you may need to arrive early to drink the solution or have it administered through an IV. This dye can highlight certain areas in your abdomen, creating clearer images.

What will happen during my abdominal CT scan?

During the scan, you will lie on a table that slides into a large, doughnut-shaped machine. It’s important to stay as still as possible so your technologist can get the most accurate images. The technologist will be able to communicate with you through an intercom, and may give you instructions, like to hold your breath for a few seconds.

The CT machine will rotate around your body, taking multiple images from different angles. You might hear some whirring or clicking sounds during the scan, which is just the machine doing its work. If you feel uncomfortable or anxious, use the intercom to let your technologist know––they’ll be able to help you feel more at ease.

How long does an abdominal CT scan usually take?

An abdominal CT scan is relatively quick, usually taking about 10 to 30 minutes, from start to finish. The actual scanning process only lasts a few minutes, but additional time is needed for preparation, especially if your provider requests contrast dye for your scan.

After the CT scan, you can usually resume your normal activities right away. If you had a scan with contrast dye, it’s a good idea to drink plenty of fluids, which will help flush the contrast out of your body. In the next week or so, you’ll hear from your provider about your CT results.

Interpreting the results of your abdominal CT

After your scan, a radiologist will analyze your CT images, and then prepare a report for your healthcare provider. We’ll help you understand how radiologists analyze the images, what common findings they might see, and how you should discuss the results with your healthcare provider.

How do radiologists analyze the images from an abdominal CT scan?

Radiologists are specially trained professionals who interpret medical images. After your abdominal CT scan, a radiologist will examine the detailed images produced during the scan, looking for any abnormalities or unusual findings in your abdominal organs and tissues.

The  radiologist uses their expertise to identify signs of conditions like inflammation, infections, tumors, cysts, or obstructions. They will compile a detailed report of their findings, and then share their report with your healthcare provider, who will review the results with you.

How do radiologists and my provider tell the difference between normal results and abnormal results?

Your healthcare team will look for specific indicators in your CT results that signal the presence of a condition. This could include variations in tissue density, irregular shapes, and deviations in the size or appearance of organs. Your radiologist and your provider will rely on their extensive medical training to accurately analyze your CT results.

Abnormal findings on abdominal CT results could include masses, cysts, or unusual fluid collections. Your team will pay close attention to the size and shape of organs, since something abnormal could indicate an area of concern, and may require further imaging or following a treatment plan.

How should I discuss my abdominal CT scan results with my healthcare provider?

Once your healthcare provider has received the radiologist’s report, they will schedule a time to discuss the results with you. It’s important to go into this discussion prepared with any questions or concerns you might have. Be sure to ask your provider to explain any medical terms or anything you don’t understand.

During the discussion, your provider will outline the next steps based on the scan results. This might include further testing, a treatment plan, or lifestyle changes to manage your care. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or more information about your diagnosis and your treatment options. Remember, your provider is there to take good care of you, so don’t be afraid to ask any questions that come to mind, so you can get the best possible care.

How to schedule your scan with us

When you get your scan at one of our imaging centers, we’ll make sure you have access to affordable, high-quality medical imaging from specialized radiologists and certified technologists. 

Reach out to a Gateway imaging center near you, and schedule your appointment today.